Top Gaming Phones for 2025: What to Buy

In today's market, almost any smartphone can play games, but what sets a good gaming phone apart from a great one? It's a combination of several key features that cater specifically to the needs of gamers. First and foremost, a powerful processor is essential. It's not just about raw power; sustained performance is crucial too. No one wants a phone that overheats and slows down after just a few minutes of intense gameplay. Additionally, ample memory and storage are vital for smooth multitasking and ample game storage. Some models, like the RedMagic 10 Pro, go the extra mile with gaming-specific enhancements such as shoulder buttons and enhanced touch sampling rates.

The display is another critical component. A larger, brighter screen with a high refresh rate ensures smooth visuals and a more immersive gaming experience. Larger phones also offer the advantage of more screen real estate, reducing thumb coverage during gameplay. With these considerations in mind, let's explore the top phones that excel in mobile gaming.

TL;DR – These Are the Best Gaming Phones:

Best overall### RedMagic10 Pro

11See it at AmazonSee it at RedMagic### Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra

2See it at Amazon### iPhone 16 Pro Max

2See it at Best Buy### iPhone SE (2022)

0See it at Apple### OnePlus 12

2See it at Amazon### Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6

4See it at Amazon### OnePlus 12R

1See it at AmazonSee it at Best BuySee it at OnePlusCheck out our guide to the best phone controllers for accessory options.

Contributions by Georgie Peru and Danielle Abraham

RedMagic 9S Pro – Photos

10 Images1. RedMagic 10 Pro

Best Gaming Phone

Best overall### RedMagic10 Pro

11The RedMagic 10 Pro is a powerhouse, combining exceptional performance with sustained excellence in a sleek package. See it at AmazonSee it at RedMagicProduct SpecificationsScreen6.85-inch OLED, 1216x2688, 431 ppi, 144Hz refresh rateProcessorSnapdragon 8 EliteCamera50-Megapixel Wide, 50-Megapixel Ultrawide, 2-Megapixel Macro, 16-Megapixel SelfieBattery7,050mAhWeight229g (0.5lb)PROSExcellent gaming performanceGreat displayCONSUnderwhelming camerasShorter software supportThe RedMagic 10 Pro stands out as a top contender for gamers, thanks to its actively cooled Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite chip. This processor, also found in devices like the Asus ROG Phone 9 and OnePlus 13, is enhanced by a cooling fan that maintains peak performance during long gaming sessions. The phone consistently ranks high in benchmarks and excels in sustained performance. Its massive 7,050mAh battery ensures you won't run out of power mid-game.

The RedMagic 10 Pro also includes gaming-specific features like two shoulder buttons that can be mapped to on-screen controls, enhancing gameplay across various titles. The display boasts a fast touch-sampling rate for quick input detection and supports supersampling and frame interpolation for enhanced visuals. Aesthetically, the phone offers a stylish design with options for clear backs that showcase its internal components. The 6.85-inch AMOLED display features minimal bezels and a hidden selfie camera for uninterrupted gaming. With a 144Hz refresh rate, high brightness, and sharp resolution, this phone is a dream for gamers, all starting at an affordable $649.

Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra – Photos

5 Images2. Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra

Best iPhone Alternative for Gaming

### Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra

2Experience gaming on a massive 6.8" AMOLED screen, powered by a processor that handles multitasking, video editing, and high-end gaming with ease. See it at AmazonProduct SpecificationsScreen size6.8 inchesRear cameras4Front cameras1ProcessorQualcomm Snapdragon 8 (third generation)Battery life5,000mAhStorage256GB, 512GB, 1TBStarting price$1,299.99PROSIncredible performanceExceptional camera systemCONSTitanium makes the device big and heavyThe Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra combines durability with top-tier performance, making it an excellent choice for gamers. Its Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 SoC, with an 8-core CPU and a GPU boasting 1,536 shading units, paired with 12GB of RAM, ensures seamless gameplay at the highest settings. The Game Booster mode optimizes performance, making it a formidable gaming device.

The 6.8" AMOLED display offers a peak brightness of nearly 2,600 nits, ensuring visibility in any environment. With a 1440p resolution and a 120Hz refresh rate, the screen delivers crisp, smooth visuals. The adaptive refresh rate further enhances battery efficiency. While it may not match the RedMagic 9S Pro in sheer speed, its long-term support, outstanding cameras, and premium design make it a strong alternative to iPhones.

3. iPhone 16 Pro Max

Best iPhone for Gaming

### iPhone 16 Pro Max

2Powered by the A18 Pro chip, the iPhone 16 Pro Max excels in gaming and more. See it at Best BuyProduct SpecificationsScreen6.9-inch OLED, 1320x2868, 460 ppi, 120Hz refresh rateProcessorA18 ProCamera48-Megapixel Wide, 48-Megapixel Ultrawide, 12-Megapixel Telephoto, 12-Megapixel SelfieBattery4,685mAhWeight227g (0.5lb)PROSPower performanceLong-term supportGreat design CONSHigh comparative priceThe iPhone 16 Pro Max, equipped with the A18 Pro chip, offers a significant boost in graphics performance over its predecessors. Its 6.9-inch display provides a larger canvas for gaming and better control visibility. Beyond gaming, the phone's titanium frame and glass construction offer a premium aesthetic, while its camera system delivers stunning photos and high-resolution video capabilities.

Apple's strides into more serious gaming, with titles like Assassin's Creed Mirage and Resident Evil available on iOS, further enhance the iPhone 16 Pro Max's appeal for gamers.

iPhone SE (2022) – Photos

6 Images4. iPhone SE (2022)

Best Budget iPhone for Gaming

### iPhone SE (2022)

0Enjoy iOS gaming on a budget with the A15 Bionic chip, though the screen may be a compromise. See it at AppleProduct SpecificationsScreen4.7-inch LCD, 750x1334, 326ppi,60Hz refresh rateProcessorA15 BionicCamera12-Megapixel Wide | 7-Megapixel SelfieBattery2,018mAhWeight144g (0.32lb)PROSGreat value for moneyThin and lightweightCONSScreen is a little too smallThe third-gen iPhone SE is a budget-friendly option that doesn't skimp on performance, thanks to the A15 Bionic chip. Starting at $429, it's an affordable entry point into iOS gaming, with access to Apple Arcade and other exclusive titles. However, the 4.7-inch screen with thick bezels may not be ideal for everyone. Pairing it with a phone controller can help maximize the gaming experience. While storage is limited at 64GB, the phone supports 5G and cloud gaming, making it a versatile choice.

See our guide to the best cheap smartphones.

OnePlus 12 – Photos

8 Images5. OnePlus 12

Best Everyday Phone for Mobile Gaming

### OnePlus 12

2A powerful processor and large AMOLED display make this mid-range flagship a gaming gem. See it at AmazonProduct SpecificationsScreen6.78-inch AMOLED, 1440x3168, 510 ppi, 120Hz refresh rateProcessorSnapdragon 8 Gen 3Camera50-Megapixel Wide | 48-Megapixel Ultra-wide | 64-Megapixel Telephoto | 32-Megapixel SelfieBattery5,400mAhWeight220g (0.49lb)PROSSolid battery lifeGreat performanceCONSLimited featuresThe OnePlus 12 strikes a balance between affordability and high-end performance, making it an excellent everyday phone for gamers. Starting at $800, it offers a refined design and solid cameras without overtly signaling its gaming prowess. The 6.82-inch AMOLED display is vibrant and reaches up to 4,500 nits for clear viewing in any light. An adaptive refresh rate from 1Hz to 120Hz ensures smooth gameplay and efficient battery use.

Powered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3, the OnePlus 12 handles demanding games like Genshin Impact with ease, though it may heat up during intense sessions.

Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 – Photos

6 Images6. Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6

Best Foldable Gaming Phone

### Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6

4A fast and stunning foldable phone, though its aspect ratio can be unusual. See it at AmazonProduct SpecificationsScreen7.6-inch 2160 x 1856 AMOLED (Main); 6.2-inch 968 x 2376 AMOLED (Cover)ProcessorQualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3Camera50MP Wide, 12MP Ultra Wide, 10MP frontBattery4400mAhWeight239g (0.52 lb)PROSStunning displays, inside and outExtremely powerfulCONSAspect ratios can be weirdThe Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 enhances its predecessor with the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chip, boosting performance by up to 22%. Its 7.6-inch internal AMOLED screen offers vivid colors and high contrast, perfect for gaming. The exterior 6.2-inch screen provides an ultra-wide aspect ratio option. When not gaming, the Z Fold 6 serves as a versatile device, functioning as both a smartphone and a small tablet. Its powerful camera system and long-term software support justify its investment.

OnePlus 12R – Photos

7 Images7. OnePlus 12R

Best Budget Android for Gaming

### OnePlus 12R

1A vibrant display and powerful processor make this a budget-friendly gaming choice. See it at AmazonSee it at Best BuySee it at OnePlusProduct SpecificationsScreen6.78-inch AMOLED, 1264x2780, 450 ppi, 120Hz refresh rateProcessorSnapdragon 8 Gen 2Camera50-Megapixel Wide, 8-Megapixel Ultrawide, 2-Megapixel Macro, 16-Megapixel SelfieBattery5,500mAhWeight207g (0.46lb)PROSLarge, vibrant displayStrong battery lifeGood main cameraCONSNo wireless chargingOnly IP64 water and dust resistanceThe OnePlus 12R offers top-tier features at a budget-friendly price of $499. Its 6.78-inch LTPO AMOLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate is ideal for gaming. The Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chip provides ample power for most games, while the 5,500mAh battery ensures long gaming sessions. Though its camera system is not as robust as the OnePlus 12, it remains a strong choice for gamers looking for value.

What to Look for in a Gaming Phone

Choosing the perfect gaming phone involves focusing on specific features that enhance the gaming experience. While regular smartphones prioritize battery life and cameras, gaming phones emphasize powerful processors and high-quality displays. Most gaming phones come with large batteries, so battery life is rarely a concern.

Processors are crucial. The latest chips, like Qualcomm's Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 for Android or Apple's A18 Pro for iPhones, deliver the best performance. However, even slightly older chips like the Snapdragon 888 or A15 Bionic offer robust gaming capabilities at a lower cost.

Displays should exceed standard smartphone specs. A refresh rate above 60Hz, ideally 90Hz or 120Hz, ensures smoother gameplay. Variable refresh rates can save power when not gaming. Fast touch sampling rates and shoulder buttons can further enhance the gaming interface.

We'll keep this list updated as new gaming phones hit the market.

Gaming Handhelds vs. Gaming Phones

Choosing between a gaming phone and a gaming handheld depends on your gaming preferences and lifestyle. Gaming phones are highly portable and multifunctional, offering features like quality cameras and navigation alongside gaming capabilities. Some include cooling solutions and physical triggers, and can be paired with phone controllers for better control.

Gaming handhelds like the Steam Deck or Nintendo Switch are larger but still portable, designed primarily for gaming with dedicated controls. They offer powerful gaming experiences, with the Steam Deck acting as a handheld PC and the Switch providing exclusive titles.

Mobile gaming on Android and iOS is expanding, with cloud gaming services like Nvidia GeForce Now and Xbox Game Pass improving. However, gaming handhelds like the Steam Deck offer more power and access to your Steam library, while the Switch has its own unique games.

Battery life is a consideration; the Steam Deck has shorter battery life, while smartphones generally last longer, though gaming can drain them quickly. A portable charger can be useful for extended play.

Cost is another factor, with gaming phones ranging from $700 to over $1,000, while gaming handhelds like the Steam Deck start at $400, and the Nintendo Switch is even more affordable.

Ultimately, it's about what suits your needs best. If you want a versatile device that can handle gaming alongside other functions, a gaming phone is ideal. If you're looking for a dedicated gaming experience with exclusive titles, a gaming handheld might be the better choice.